Trump business delivered massive blow in more than $350 million ruling

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - New York Justice Arthur Engoron delivered a severe blow to former President Donald Trump’s business empire Friday, ruling the former president owes more than $350 million in penalties and that he cannot run businesses in the state for three years

This case initially brought by New York Democratic Attorney General Letitia James accused Trump, his family, and associates of inflating his assets to receive better terms form banks and insurance companies.

“Today the court once again ruled in our favor and in favor of every hard-working American who plays by the rules,” said James.

Trump consistently bashed the trial, targeting James and the Judge, with outbursts in court. He maintains his innocence, arguing there are no victims or damages in this case.

“These are corrupt people. These are people that shouldn’t be allowed to do the things they do. And they’re using this as weaponization against a political opponent,” said Trump in Florida following the ruling.

Columbia University political expert Eric Talley says the scope of Trump’s business made this a unique case for New York.

“It’s a big penalty. And the one thing that you have to know is that this statute, it doesn’t get pulled out all the time,” said Talley.

Trump evaded a penalty some expected - a total ban from doing business in the state. With a an appeal, the full consequences for the former president might not be known for some time.

“Maybe there are multiple objectives at stake here. Winning the lawsuit is one, but losing the lawsuit also creates some ammunition for future campaign speeches that might be given,” said Talley.

In addition to this civil fraud case, the former president is facing four state and criminal indictments. Trump also maintains his innocence in all of these cases. His first criminal trial is set to begin New York March 25.

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